What is a Lane Home or Coach house?

A Lane Home or Coach House is a small home located at the rear or alley-side of a property. They can be built in place of a current structure, like a carport or garage, or developed from unused land. Lane Homes are a perfect solution for families who need more space for their children, grandparents, or other relatives. They can also provide a secondary income through rental revenue, and offer an affordable solution to Vancouver’s growing population and housing market.

What Kind of Lane Home Can I build?

Most lane homes are 700 to 1000 square feet plus exemptions. The approved size depends on your current lot size, how large your existing property is, and how your property is shaped. We will help you determine the most effective size and shape for your lane home during your free site consultation. With this information, we are able to determine how many floors, bedrooms, bathrooms, and other rooms are possible — as well as any outdoor living, storage, utility, and kitchen space — based on your unique needs and lifestyle.

Is Your Lot Eligible for a Lane Home?

Zoning, lot size, and parking requirements differ by municipality, however the main requirements for development are:

Property must be a minimum of 7 to 15 metres wide

Property must be accessible by a lane or flanking street, or be wide enough to have access to the front street by a driveway

Property must be able to accommodate 1-2 required on-site parking spaces

To find out whether your property qualifies for a lane home, contact us for a FREE site consultation today! We are happy to give you all the information you need to fully understand the process and financing needed to build a lane home.